Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir heaped praise on Rishabh Pant in the dressing room for his courageous batting after the completion of the fourth Test in Manchester. Despite suffering an injury, Pant made a crucial contribution with the bat in India’s first innings.
In a recent video shared on Team India’s official social media platforms, Gambhir was seen commending Pant, saying that the wicketkeeper-batter has created his own legacy and inspired not just his teammates but the next generation as well.
“The foundation of this Test team will be based on what Rishabh has done for this team. I hate talking about individuals. I have never spoken about individuals in a team sport. You have not only inspired this dressing room, but the next generation. This is what you have done and the legacy you have created for yourself and for everyone in this dressing room. So very well done, and the country will always be proud of you,” Gambhir said.
Pant had to retire hurt on 37 not out during India’s first innings at Manchester after suffering a fractured toe from a yorker bowled by Chris Woakes. Despite being advised six weeks of rest, he showed tremendous courage by returning the next morning to resume his innings, eventually completing a gritty half-century by adding 17 more runs.
Pant’s Message for the Team
With the injury ruling him out of the final Test at The Oval, the selectors have named N Jagadeesan as Pant’s replacement. Ahead of the decider, Pant delivered an inspiring message to his teammates.
“The only message I’m going to give my team is, let’s win it, guys. Let’s do it for the country. Just a gesture from my side. Whatever it takes to make our team win or put the team forward instead of thinking about the personal goal, that was all for me. Definitely, it’s been amazing the way they backed me. The team is under pressure. Everything is there, but when the whole country stands behind you for the same cause, that is something. That emotion is difficult to explain, how proud I feel to represent my country,” Pant said.
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